Describing himself as an unconventional candidate, Mr. Ring said he is fed up with Congress like a lot of people in the country.

Mr. Ring is running as a Republican against incumbent U.S. Rep. William L. Owens, D-Plattsburgh.

Other declared Republican candidates are Elise M. Stefanik, a Willsboro businesswoman who worked as a policy adviser in the George W. Bush White House, and Joseph M. Gilbert, a 24-year veteran of the U.S. Army and former emergency services director for St. Lawrence County.

Mr. Ring, 58, has worked as a broadcast engineer at radio stations throughout New York state, primarily in Northern New York. He also works as a Microsoft-certified computer consultant.

Mr. Ring said that he has long been a conservative but that he also has a pragmatic streak.

I dont see where youre going to come up with a real solution if you draw a hard line in the sand, Mr. Ring said.

Jefferson County Republican Chairman Donald G. M. Coon III said he has met with Mr. Ring.

Having more than one or two candidates will certainly make it an interesting political season, Mr. Coon said.

The Glens Falls Post-Star reported Thursday that John James, Cambridge, an actor who portrayed the character Jeff Colby on the television show Dynasty, is also considering a bid for the district.

Mr. Coon said the chairmen and -women of the 12 counties in the district have agreed to interview only the candidates who have filed with the Federal Election Commission. At this time, only Ms. Stefanik, Mr. Gilbert and Mr. Ring have filed with the FEC, Mr. Coon said.